Integration of Geological and Geophysical Survey for a Geo-Exchange System Design

Abstract

The design of a geothermal system represents a key moment since the future effective operation of the plant will strictly depend from it. A correct and effective design of a geoexchange system should not be performed without a precise and accurate knowledge of the subsoil variability and its related thermal properties. The present work shows a case study for the design of a field of borehole heat exchangers for climate control and domestic hot water production in a newly constructed residential area located in the municipality of Tarvisio (NW Italy). It is pointed out the fundamental importance of a correct geological prospection, based on the integration of direct and indirect surveys. Correct investigations were indeed crucial, coupled to a Thermal Response Test, for a proper identification of the thermodynamic characteristics of the subsoil and then for the optimization of the system. Specifically, this case study aims to serve as an example to highlight the importance of variability in the horizontal scale of the thermal conductivity of the subsoil and the potential errors that can be made if no investigation is undertaken.